Mastering Blues Guitar: 3 Killer E Minor Pentatonic Licks

Hammer-ons and Pull-offs: Blues Licks in E Minor Pentatonic

This lesson focuses on developing your hammer-on and pull-off technique within the context of blues guitar. We will explore how to use these techniques to create fluid and expressive blues licks in the E minor pentatonic scale, a cornerstone of blues improvisation.

Hammer-ons

Hammer-ons involve striking a string with a fingertip, creating a note without plucking. Practice smooth, controlled hammer-ons to avoid muted or dead notes. Focus on accuracy and timing. Experiment with different finger combinations to find what feels most natural.

Pull-offs

Pull-offs are the opposite of hammer-ons. You pluck a note, then pull a finger off the string to create the next note. Again, precision and timing are key. A clean pull-off should sound clear and resonant, not muted or choked.

Applying Hammer-ons and Pull-offs to Blues Licks

The E minor pentatonic scale provides a great foundation for practicing these techniques. Start by practicing simple two-note hammer-on/pull-off combinations, gradually increasing the complexity. Listen to blues guitarists and try to emulate their phrasing and rhythmic feel. Experiment with different rhythmic variations and note choices to develop your own style.

12-Bar Blues Structure

The 12-bar blues is a classic framework for blues improvisation. Practice incorporating your hammer-on and pull-off licks into the 12-bar structure. Experiment with different variations within the structure to add your own creative flair.

Intermediate Exercises

Once you've mastered the basics, try incorporating more advanced techniques such as string skipping and legato phrasing. Focus on developing your musicality and creating expressive licks that convey emotion and feeling.

Remember, consistent practice is key to mastering hammer-ons and pull-offs. Start slowly, focusing on accuracy and clean execution. Gradually increase your speed as your technique improves.